SALINAS — A WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca employee was killed Sunday following an accident that occurred on the track during an independent rental event.

The track was being used for one of its Exclusive Track Days. That’s when independent people or groups can arrange to drive the track between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

An official statement from the track read: “WeatherTech Raceway is saddened to confirm the death of a corner worker as a result of an accident that occurred on the track Sunday during an independent rental. As per the facility’s safety protocols, all subsequent sessions were immediately suspended. The safety of all participants, track personnel and those involved with any event is the facility’s first priority and were reflected in the prompt actions that were implemented. The entire racing community is saddened by this loss.”

A corner worker is an employee positioned along the fencing of the track who waves certain flags during racing sessions. They’re within sight of the drivers but with gravel and/or sand traps between their posts and the track itself.

The Monterey’s County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case.

Previously known as Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and Laguna Seca Raceway, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a road racing track that’s 2.238 miles long with a 180-foot elevation change. It is used for both motorcycle and auto racing. Its 11 turns are highlighted by the downhill-plunging “Corkscrew.”